Fun Indoor Experiences to Keep Warm This Winter

Cape Town is once again being hit with thunderstorms and cold fronts, making it important for everyone to stay warm and entertained through the winter season. With creative activities, adrenaline-pumping workouts, and much more, these are some curated recommendations for how to keep busy in the cold weather.

Catch a movie at the Labia

A favourite of moviegoers in the city, the Labia Theatre maintains a balanced selection of major blockbusters and independent films, with new titles rotating weekly. With affordable tickets, a fully licensed bar, all the classic movie snacks, and its close proximity to Kloof Street’s famous restaurants and cafes, there’s no better place to catch an evening film in the Mother City.

Cost: R90 per ticket | R60 (Students/Pensioners/Children). Bookings can be made in person or online – movies for the week are available on the website.

When: Monday – Sunday | Early showings from 11.30am | Final showings from 8.30pm
Where: 68 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town

Norval Sovereign African Art Prize (NSAAP) 2025 Walkabout

Take in art at Norval Foundation

Norval Foundation, situated in the Tokai region of Cape Town, is a haven for both South African and pan-African artwork. The gallery, founded in 2018, aims to nurture understanding and appreciation of African art. It strives to position African artists within the global art-historical canon, fostering awareness and elevating the discourse on their contributions. Currently, Norval hosts four exhibitions, many of which display celebrated works from some of South Africa’s most influential artists.

On Thursday, 21 May, guests of Norval’s Wine & Art evening are guided through Harare-based artist Portia Zvavahera’s deeply personal Tanda rima exhibition, which showcases her dreams, experiences, and memories in dripping, dynamic visual form. Afterwards, the evening resumes with a wine tasting led by Beau Constantia’s resident winemaker, with each wine paired alongside artisanal canapés that speak to the exhibition’s themes.

Wine & Art Evening: R500 per person, advance booking on Webtickets is essential.
Takes place on 21 May 2026, from 7pm.

Cost: Day Pass – R220pp for African Nationals | R330pp for Internationals | R110pp for young adults aged 18 to 24 years | Kids under 18 enter free. Book via Webtickets

When: Wednesday – Sunday | 10am – 5pm (Sat) | 10am – 4pm (Sun)
Where: Norval Foundation, 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai

Create something new at Clay Café in the City

Clay Café in the City is a ceramic painting venue and tapas bar. Visitors enjoy a creative space that fosters a community of like-minded adults to be expressive, learn new techniques, and just have some fun while exploring, enjoying tapas, and listening to relaxing music.

Guests can choose from over 180 pre-made ceramic pieces to paint and personalise, from mugs to quirky figurines, with the painting process kept simple and enjoyable for beginners and seasoned artists. Clay Café also regularly offers discounts and specials, whether it’s for date night or an evening group session on First Thursday.

Cost: Studio fee of R45 per person + price of chosen item(s). Bookings can be made on Dineplan.

When: Tuesday – Sunday | 11am – 5pm (Tue) | 11am – 10pm (Wed – Fri) | 9am – 10pm (Sat) | 9am – 6pm (Sun)
Where: 199 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre

Swing by Total Ninja

The largest inflatable obstacle course in Africa, Total Ninja challenges both adults and kids to climb, balance, jump, and swing across a range of Ninja Warrior-inspired obstacles. The layout is well-designed to cater to people of varying skill levels, ensuring that people of all ages and ninja-like abilities can enjoy their time while putting their agility to the test.

Safety is a top priority, with trained staff overseeing each section and ensuring adherence to proper safety protocols. The facility is equipped with modern amenities, including comfortable seating areas, an affordable cafe, and clean facilities, providing a pleasant experience for attendees.

Whether it’s a fun day out with friends or a genuinely engaging exercise, Total Ninja is an ideal destination for anyone trying to prove themselves as a “ninja warrior”.

Cost: R160 per person per hour | Various offers available. Bookings can be made using the website.

When: Monday – Sunday | 10am – 9pm (Mon – Fri) | 9am – 9pm (Sat & Sun)
Where: Black River Park (South Park Entrance), 2 Fir Street, Observatory, Cape Town

Experience a Hot Chocolate Tasting at Revved Up

Home to curated tastings of fresh pastries and drinks, most notably their viral hot chocolate flavours, which range from white choc truffle to unicorn fluff, Revved Up is a favourite among Cape Town’s warm drink lovers. With a cosy interior and warm atmosphere, there are few places better for dodging the rain and enjoying freshly made treats this winter season.

Cost: R109 per person. Reservations can be made on WithNovel.

When: Monday – Saturday | 7.30am – 5pm (Mon – Fri) | 8am – 1pm (Sat)
Where: 112 Buitengracht St, Cape Town City Centre

View modern art at Zeitz MOCAA

The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art (MOCAA) is one of Cape Town’s leading art galleries dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. Housed in the now-iconic Silo Building at the V&A Waterfront, the gallery boasts both a permanent exhibition and temporary, rotating exhibitions, all contributing to the preservation and promotion of African artists.

With exhibitions ranging from sculptures and paintings to experimental cinema, the Zeitz is the premier destination for those wanting to view contemporary African art in the Mother City.

Cost: R265 for a day pass. Book now on Webtickets.

When: Daily | 10am – 6pm
Where: Zeitz MOCAA, S Arm Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

Shop at Willowbridge Slow Market

Operating since 2008, this artisanal weekend market features local makers, bakers, crafters, and cooks selling their small-batch, homemade goods throughout the winter. With everything from sterling silver jewellery to freshly baked pastries, the Slow Market invites visitors to relax and unwind as they wander through the space and support small South African businesses.

When: Every Saturday & Sunday | 9am – 4pm (Sat) | 9am – 2pm (Sun)
Where: Willowbridge South, 39 Carl Cronje Dr, Bellville

Experience an enchanting production at the Artscape

There’s no better time to sit back and be moved by the storytelling, atmosphere, and characters of a strong theatre performance than when it’s cold outside. Whether it’s the Spanish Civil War backdrop of Carmen, the politically-charged drama of The Killing of a Union Leader, or the witty satire of Orpheus in the Underworld, there’s a production for every ballet, play and opera fan in the Mother City.

The Artscape itself is the premier performing arts destination in Cape Town, often hosting award-winning works by acclaimed artists, with world-class sound and stage facilities to ensure every production is as entertaining as possible.

Cost: From R180. Tickets for Carmen, The Killing of a Union Leader, and Orpheus can be booked online.
Where: Artscape Theatre Centre, D.F. Malan St, Foreshore

Find out about all of the stage shows coming up this season

Climb up CityROCK

Those who haven’t gotten in on the rock climbing craze have the perfect opportunity to do so this winter. Situated on Paarden Island, this venue boasts world-class facilities, including over 4,000 m² with 16m-high walls, a fitness gym, and a yoga & Pilates studio.

Visitors can book an indoor climbing session and also attend any of the gym classes, with a rotating list of exercises scheduled throughout the week. CityROCK also offers guided courses on climbing techniques, from complete beginner classes to expert-level technique lessons. Kids can also get in on the fun, with a dedicated Kids Zone offering day-to-day activities and birthday parties.

Cost: From R210 (day pass) + R110 (full gear rental) | R170 (boulder area + upstairs gym access). Bookings available on the website.

When: Monday – Sunday | 11am – 10pm (Mon – Thu) | 9am – 6pm (Fri – Sun)
Where: 9 Milner St, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town

Enjoy fireside dining at Bardelli’s

A celebrated local mainstay found in the heart of Kenilworth. Known for its hearty, home-style dishes and its commitment to quality ingredients, Bardelli’s has been voted the best Pizzeria in South Africa. From wood-fired pizzas with crisp bases to rich pastas and indulgent desserts, every dish is crafted with care and authenticity.

The cosy, quirky interior – complete with warm lighting, vintage décor, and a welcoming fireplace – adds to the restaurant’s charm. The upbeat ambience and friendly staff create a welcoming environment, perfect for grabbing a warm meal on a cold winter night.

Booking is available on the website.

When: Daily | 12pm – 10pm (Sun – Thu) | 12pm – 10.30pm (Fri & Sat)
Where: Cnr Kenilworth & Wessel Rds, Kenilworth, Cape Town

Read our recommendations for warm dinners by the fire

Be immersed in the Museum of Illusions

Families looking for something new while exploring the city can try out this immersive museum experience. Attendees can expect a variety of interactive exhibits – from optical illusions and holograms to gravity-defying rooms and mind-twisting puzzles. It’s a space where visitors of all ages are encouraged to explore, touch, and snap unforgettable photos, making it ideal for a day out with families, friends, and curious minds.

Cost: R250pp (adult) | R200pp (children aged 4-12 & seniors) | R790 (family bundle – 2x adults & 2x children). Tickets are available for purchase on the website.

When: 9am – 8pm (Sun – Wed) | 9am – 10pm (Thu – Sat)
Where: 10 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town

Try out Mojo Market

Mojo Market is a trendy food-and-lifestyle market in Sea Point. Unlike any other market in Cape Town, it is open every day and offers a great place to meet old friends, make new ones, try new food, and enjoy free entertainment.

With five bars and 30+ food stalls or artisan retail offerings, there is bound to be something of interest to everyone – from burritos, ramen, and kormas to sushi platters, there’s hardly a continent of the world that isn’t represented.

To keep visitors entertained, Mojo Market has a weekly schedule of activities and shows: Mondays are for karaoke, Tuesdays are for jazz, Wednesdays are for movie night, Thursdays are for comedy, and Sundays are for both early-morning Zumba classes and evening Salsa workshops. Visitors can keep track of the winter calendar using the website.

When: Monday – Sunday | 8am – 11pm
Where: Mojo Market, 30 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town

Fight for high scores at Barcadia

This lively, retro-inspired bar features a wide range of single-player and multi-player arcade games for visitors to play while enjoying a drink and a pizza. A great choice for a night out in the city, there’s everything from old-school racing and Tekken to shooters and pinball. Visitors are encouraged to bring their friends along and compete to crown the night’s ultimate champion – just don’t hog the machines.

Arcade games are free when purchasing from the bar, which is 21+. The bar also regularly hosts live music and entertainment, so make sure to keep up with either their Facebook or Instagram.

When: Tuesday – Saturday | 6pm – 2am (Tue – Fri) | 1pm – 2am (Sat)
Where: 62 Hout St, Cape Town City Centre

Listen to live, local music at Café Roux

Located at The Farm Village in Noordhoek, Café Roux is firmly entrenched as a music hotspot in this coastal greenbelt. It has earned a reputation for supporting local music and is a prominent fixture on Cape Town’s live music scene. Whether it’s up-and-coming talent, established industry veterans, or even a tribute band, Café Roux is always hosting something alongside its traditional all-day menu and extensive list of drinks.

Far from a music-only venue, Café Roux also regularly organises trivia nights, talent shows, stand-up comedians, and more. Their entire winter calendar is available on the website.

When: Monday – Sunday | 8.30am – 3.30pm (regular hours) | 6pm – 9.30pm (event nights)
Where: The Farm Village, Village Lane, Noordhoek, Cape Town

Discover more intimate live music venues throughout Cape Town and surrounds

Escape the room at Hint Hunt

Operating since 2012, Hint Hunt is one of the first Live Escape Games to open globally. They have been considered a pioneer in the industry and played a role in the Escape Game craze that became a phenomenon many years ago.

Still a favourite in Cape Town, Hint Hunt offers a wide range of experiences from escape rooms (online and outdoor) to amazing races and mobile escape games. Ideal for team-building or simply a fun activity with friends, participants can choose from an extensive list of options categorised by difficulty, number of players, and estimated time to plan the perfect day out.

Cost: Escape rooms starting at R390 per person. Bookings available on the website.

When: Monday – Sunday | 10am – 7pm (Mon – Thu) | 10am – 8.30pm (Fri & Sat) | 10am – 5.30pm (Sun)
Where: The Watershed, 17 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

Skate at the Rollercade

Rollercade is the first premier indoor roller-skating amusement park in Cape Town, where families can enjoy a safe, welcoming environment to experience the joy of roller-skating, play a game of pool or at the arcade, or just sit back and enjoy the music. The main event at Rollercade Cape Town sees visitors take to the rink for a safe social skating experience, whether learning on the go or showing off their skills on eight wheels.

Cost: R180 per person. Book now on their website.

When: Wednesday – Sunday | 1pm – 6pm (Wed & Thu) | 1pm – 9pm (Fri) | 10am – 9pm (Sat) | 10am – 6pm (Sun)
Where: Rollercade Table Bay Mall, Corner of Berkshire Boulevard and R27 Sunningdale, Cape Town

Experience the Two Oceans Aquarium

Cape Town’s iconic marine life sanctuary, the Two Oceans Aquarium, provides a safe home for a variety of sharks, penguins, turtles, and several species of octopuses, moray eels, crabs and jellyfish. There are plenty of ways to see, meet, and interact with these creatures, with each exhibit dedicated to a different type of sea creature.

In addition to the beloved, regular romp through the Aquarium, there are numerous special offers available throughout the season. Visitors can book a guided, behind-the-scenes tour of the entire Aquarium, meet the penguins in a 90-minute educational session, or even learn how to dive with the PADI Diving School this winter.

Discover the wonder of the ocean at the Two Oceans Aquarium

Race your friends at Extreme Go-Karting

Extreme Go-Karting is a thrilling destination for adrenaline junkies and racing enthusiasts. Located in the Tyger Valley Shopping Centre, this state-of-the-art karting facility offers an exhilarating experience for individuals of all ages and skill levels. With an indoor go-kart track, high-quality karts, and real-time leaderboards.

In 2025, the company introduced “Double Karts”, a type of kart that allows passengers to experience the thrill of racing without having to control the car. This allows anyone, particularly children and those with disabilities, to participate in races and join in on the fun. Kart racers must be 10+.

Cost: From R150 for 10-15 laps. Booking in advance is essential using the WhatsApp 072 999 0290 or email [email protected].

When: Monday – Sunday | 9am – 8pm (Mon – Sat) | 9am – 5pm (Sun)
Where: Mezzanine Level, Tyger Valley Center, cnr Bill Bezuidenhout Ave & Willie Van Schoor Dr, Bellville Park, Cape Town

Relax and reset at Fairmont Spa

Located inside the luxurious Cape Grace Hotel, Fairmont Spa offers a myriad of options for health, wellness, and relaxation. Utilising indigenous botanicals and run by dedicated professionals, each experience is crafted to promote tranquillity away from the busy city outside. Fairmont Spa is open to guests and visitors alike, offering unique wellness facilities and a range of treatments for skincare, nail care, and massages.

For those looking for a luxury spa day at the V&A Waterfront, the Fairmont Spa offers a unique and extensive experience with premium facilities, whether guests need only one treatment or want to spend the whole afternoon relaxing and reconnecting.

All treatments & experiences are available in the brochure.

When: Monday – Sunday | 8am – 8pm | Booking in advance is recommended
Where: Cape Grace Hotel, W Quay Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

De-stress at Rage Rooms

Anyone looking to relieve some stress in winter can sign up for a Rage Room, where attendees smash bottles, household objects, consoles and more. Each package comes with protective equipment, ensuring no one is hurt (except the things smashed to pieces). Participants can sign up as an individual, book a specialised “couples therapy” experience, or arrange for a group session.

All packages are available on the website.

Cost: R300 per person. Bookings can be made by contacting [email protected] or 082 605 1150.

Visit the V&A Waterfront

The Waterfront has many options for people trying to duck the winter weather and enjoy something indoors. With award-winning restaurants, trendy clothing stores, an indoor craft and design space, and fun group activities like HintHunt’s escape rooms, visitors can easily spend an entire cold afternoon at the V&A.